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Nelson also reportedly turned down the same deal from Denver, in the hopes of earning a bigger role with the Eagles, according to Nicki Jhabvala of the Denver Post. The deal cannot be official until the new league year begins on Wednesday at 4 p.m.

All signs indicate the Eagles view Nelson as a potential starter. There are a lot of questions surrounding Philadelphia’s linebacker position, so it was wise for the team to add a competent player on an inexpensive deal.

There’s a good chance the Eagles can’t afford to bring free agent Nigel Bradham back, especially when looking at the deal Anthony Hitchens reportedly just got from Kansas City. Jordan Hicks hasn’t been able to stay healthy. The Eagles could look to unload Mychal Kendricks in a trade.

Considering the cloud of uncertainty surrounding the linebacker position, Nelson could end up being an important component of Philadelphia’s defense next season. He had the best year of his NFL career in 2016 but suffered a biceps tear in October of 2017 that ended his season.

The former seventh-round pick was effective two years ago, with 61 tackles and five passes defended in 545 snaps. He has a lot of potential.

“In my opinion, Corey is a starter. On most teams, Corey would be a starter. … He has a huge role for us on defense,” Broncos coach Vance Joseph said before Nelson’s season-ending injury, via All22.com. “He’s a valuable part of our team.”